Local Attractions

Purbeck Art Weeks Festival returns this year, bringing a rich celebration of art, music and community to the heart of Purbeck. Across the festival, visitors can explore open studios, exhibitions, workshops, concerts and talks, with Rollington Barn near Corfe Castle serving as the lively hub for its Collective Exhibition, Pop-Up Studio and Courtyard Café. From local artists and young creative talent to stirring live performances and inspiring cultural events, it offers a beautifully varied programme with something to discover, enjoy and be inspired by.

Sandpolo returns to Sandbanks Beach, Poole, on Friday 10 and Saturday 11 July 2026, bringing its signature blend of world-class beach polo, coastal glamour and summer celebration to one of Dorset’s most iconic settings. With fast-paced sporting action on the sand, stylish hospitality, a buzzing food and drink village, pitch-side bars and evening entertainment beneath the marquees, it’s a lively, sun-soaked weekend where sport, style and music come together by the sea.

Camp Bestival Dorset returns to Lulworth Castle this summer, bringing its joyful mix of live music, family adventure and festival magic to the Jurassic Coast. This much-loved “festi-holiday” combines camping, comedy, theatre, workshops and big-name performances in one colourful countryside setting, with the 2026 line-up including Fatboy Slim, Bastille, Self Esteem and Billy Ocean.

Purbeck Film Festival celebrates cinema across Dorset with a warmly curated programme of independent, international and rarely seen films, shown in characterful venues from village halls and historic theatres to outdoor spaces under the stars. Marking its 30th anniversary in 2026, the festival brings together special screenings, previews, introductions, guest appearances and a strong community spirit, creating a cinematic experience that feels thoughtful, atmospheric and distinctly local.

A delicious combination of silky soft sand, dramatic limestone cliffs and idyllic Jurassic Coast coves makes a delightfully varied coastline. Whatever your perfect day at the beach looks like, Dorset has something special to offer.

If you’re dreaming of an English escape this spring, look no further than the Isle of Purbeck—a pocket of Dorset where wild coastline, ancient ruins and unspoilt villages come together in one breathtaking corner of the South West. Tucked along the banks of the River Frome in Wareham, The Priory Hotel offers the perfect base to explore this landscape of sea air, countryside calm and timeless charm.

Immerse yourself in the ultimate relaxation experience with a soothing seaweed bath on stunning Studland Beach with Sae Seaweed. This luxurious treatment helps alleviate aches and pains, boosts circulation, and detoxifies your body, leaving your skin and hair soft, nourished, and rejuvenated.

Play 18 holes of golf on the quintessential heathland course that is Broadstone Golf Club. The course is laid out on glorious rolling terrain. The elevated homeward nine provides panoramic views of the Purbeck Hills and Poole Harbour.

Nestled between the gentle curves of the Frome and Piddle rivers, Wareham is a town steeped in history, its Saxon walls, and picturesque quay whispering tales of centuries past. The Two Rivers Walk is an ideal way to experience this charming landscape—a flat, easy route that meanders through water meadows, alongside tranquil riverbanks, and past glimpses of Wareham’s storied past.

Whether you are a seasoned clay enthusiast, a regular game shooter, or looking to try something new. Why not try this popular country pursuit in the heart of Hardy’s Wessex, the shooting site occupies some 80 acres and is known as one of the most picturesque sites in the country and has been voted shooting ground of the year.